Adapting to new technologies, values, and work dynamics challenges the very essence of established standardisation models — how ISO standards are navigating the changing tides.
In the ever-evolving tapestry of modern work culture, ISO standards are both a backbone and a compass, but the terrain of standardisation is shifting. With new technologies, shifting values, and altered work methodologies, the established models of standardisation, accreditation, and certification face unprecedented challenges.
A Fluctuating Landscape
ISO standards have long been revered for their ability to unify practices, languages, and systems across global organisations, fostering trade, minimising technical barriers, and fortifying consumer protection. However, tracking the trend in ISO certification uptake isn't straightforward. While ISO reported a global increase in valid certificates in 2020, the appetite for ISO standards' certification seems variable, defying simplistic analysis.
Certifications in Flux
The data on ISO certifications presents a complex picture. Changes in data collection methods by ISO have muddled the understanding of long-term certification trends. Moreover, major certification bodies from several countries opted out of reporting, clouding the accurate representation of the total valid certificates to ISO management systems standards.
Pondering the Future
ISO standards are at a crossroads. The dominant ISO 9001 certification could face challenges from potential changes to ISO 9004, while organisations increasingly pivot towards Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) concerns. The surge of Digital Transformation and the enigmatic realm of Quality 4.0 further complicate the standards landscape, promising both disruption and innovation.
Embracing Change
The Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) is proactively engaging with these evolving paradigms. From defining Quality 4.0 to contributing to standards driving sustainability in a digitally transformed world, CQI is spearheading efforts to redefine the knowledge, skills, and values essential for modern quality professionals to thrive.
Navigating the Unknown
The future of standards remains elusive amidst these seismic shifts. However, the CQI remains steadfast in tackling these challenges head-on. Collaborating closely with ISO and national standards bodies, the CQI acts as a bridge, representing member perspectives in the development and revision of ISO standards, ensuring adaptability and relevance in an ever-changing work sphere.
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